Interior Design FAQs in Philadelphia, PA

Good Questions Deserve Clear Answers.

Here is what most clients want to know before we start.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you structure your design fees?

My fees are structured as a flat design fee, based on the size, scope, and complexity of your project. This approach provides clarity from the beginning and avoids the uncertainty of hourly billing.

In addition to design fees, I charge separate fees for procurement and project management, which cover the sourcing, ordering, tracking, and management of all specified items. These fees are clearly outlined in your initial proposal so you can see the full scope of investment upfront.

Projects can also be segmented into phases to accommodate your timeline and the pace at which you’re comfortable investing in your home.

What is a Design Strategy Session?

A Design Strategy Session is a planning-focused service for homeowners in Philadelphia, the surrounding suburbs, and the Main Line who want professional guidance before committing to full-service design or beginning construction.

During this session, we focus on space planning, layout reconfiguration, and overall project strategy. This often includes evaluating whether walls should be moved, how circulation can be improved, and how to align scope with budget before design documents or demolition begin.

This session is ideal if you:

Are considering a renovation but don’t know where to start
Want expert input before hiring a contractor
Need clarity around layout changes, feasibility, or next steps

Many clients use the strategy session as a first step toward a larger design or renovation project.

Do you help with space planning and moving walls?

Yes. Space planning and layout reconfiguration are a core part of my work.

I regularly help clients rethink kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces by improving flow, adjusting layouts, and coordinating changes such as moving or removing walls. These decisions are addressed early in the process to ensure the design is functional, buildable, and aligned with long-term needs.

This is especially common in older homes throughout Philadelphia, the suburbs, and the Main Line, where existing layouts often benefit from thoughtful reconfiguration.

What types of projects do you typically work on?

I primarily work on residential projects, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos throughout Philadelphia, the surrounding suburbs, and the Main Line.

Most projects involve kitchens, bathrooms, and main living spaces, and often include layout changes, custom cabinetry, and detailed finish coordination.

What should my budget be for furnishings?

Furnishing budgets vary based on the size of the space, the level of customization, and the quality of materials selected. I create ballpark budgets early in the process to help set realistic expectations.

As a general example, for a 250 square foot living room, furnishing budgets may fall into the following ranges:

Classic: $115 per square foot
Signature: $155 per square foot
Custom: $195 per square foot

At the Classic level, you can expect well-made, carefully selected pieces that look cohesive and feel intentional. Signature takes that further with more refined materials, elevated details, and a stronger point of view. Custom is a fully tailored approach — every piece chosen specifically for your home, your lifestyle, and the way you actually use the space.

These ranges translate to approximately $28,750 to $48,750 for a 250 square foot living room, for furnishings alone, not including design, procurement, or installation fees.

Final budgets are always tailored to your specific project and priorities.

Why do you charge a procurement fee?

Procurement is far more than simply placing orders.

Once your design is approved, I manage every step involved in sourcing and purchasing your furnishings, finishes, fixtures, and materials. This includes:

Creating detailed purchase orders
Coordinating with vendors and trades
Tracking lead times and deliveries
Managing backorders, damages, and returns
Resolving issues before they reach you

This fee reflects the time, expertise, and oversight required to ensure everything arrives correctly and on schedule—so you don’t have to manage dozens of vendors or logistics yourself.

Do you offer renovation and project management services?

Yes. I provide design support and project coordination for kitchen and bathroom renovations throughout Philadelphia, the suburbs, and the Main Line.

I work with a trusted network of contractors and trades and can also collaborate with your contractor, provided they are open to a coordinated, design-led process. My role is to support clear communication, protect the design intent, and help keep projects organized from planning through completion.

Do you work with clients who already have a contractor?

Yes. I’m happy to work with an existing contractor as long as they are open to collaboration, documentation, and a design-led process. Clear communication and mutual respect are essential to a successful project.

Do you take on small projects?

Project size is evaluated based on scope and complexity, not square footage alone.

For clients who need guidance without a full renovation, Design Strategy Sessions and design-only services are available and can be a great place to start.

When should I contact a designer during my renovation timeline?

Ideally, before hiring a contractor or beginning demolition.

Early involvement allows for proper space planning, budget alignment, and informed decision-making. This leads to smoother construction, fewer surprises, and better overall results—especially for projects involving layout changes or structural updates.

How far in advance should I reach out?

I recommend reaching out several months before your ideal construction start date. This allows adequate time for planning, design development, and coordination, particularly for kitchen and bathroom renovations.

How do I know which service is right for me?

If you’re unsure where to start, that’s completely normal.

If you need clarity, planning, or professional direction → Design Strategy Session
If you want comprehensive support from planning through execution → Full-Service Design
If you need targeted design assistance only → Design-Only or À La Carte Services

I’m happy to help determine the best fit after reviewing your project details.

Let's Talk Design.

Please fill out this online form to inquire about my design services. I’m excited to work with you!